Ogunquit 'Place Making' In Maine

Every summer we see many people give Ogunquit a try for their vacation. Recognizing who is making their first trip to Ogunquit is easy - they are always surprised at the traffic and relieved when they find out that Ogunquit Beach, Marginal Way and Perkins Cove are within walking distance of the Meadowmere. Plus a quaint trolley that stops at our back door provides public transportation to every spot in the village. Our new friends visibly sigh with relief.

And we completely understand - in fact, almost everyone with a business in Ogunquit has to make daily trips to the post office in heart of our seaside village. In the summer, in the heat. Often, I make this trip for the Resort and watch our guests walk by as I idle in traffic - sometimes as long as 20 minutes (Ogunquit's main intersection is legendary - no light, no rotary, no traffic cop, and 4 major roads meeting. It is probably Maine's most studied intersection for congestion.). My wait gives me time to catch a few clips on public radio and often the timing is when environmental issues are featured. Today, the radio featured the Aspen Idea Festival - an annual gathering of global leaders, scientists, artists, politicians, activists and more. In particular, a segment on Place-Making was discussed.

The topic was fascinating - you can read more about what place making is here or check out a nice post on the Daily Planet's blog. But basically, how do we plan our cities and towns to create neighborhoods? As the segment continued, I compared the speaker's points to Ogunquit - and thought I would share. . .

Black - Ogunquit's Newest Little Restaurant

On this rainy day in Ogunquit, it's easy to think about how beautiful the past few days were - when people were chatting on the Village Food Market patio, walking with ice cream and generally enjoying a warm summer night in Maine.

And a great new spot to see the endless people watching of Ogunquit's village center? Black - Ogunquit's new Sushi House.

Opened by a local friend named Buzzy and located on Main Street at the Leavitt Theatre, those of us that went were really quite impressed. It takes a certain amount of nerve to just try a Sushi place - the cuisine being mostly raw fish and all - but knowing the owner's excellent experience and great sense of hospitality, we walked right in.

Then out - since we discovered that we could sit outside and enjoy the warm evening. A nice surprise since the view is the length of Ogunquit's downtown and all of its shops and storefronts. But don't despair if you can't sit outside. The inside of the restaurant is simple and clean and the huge glass windows will let you catch a glimpse of every passerby.

Now - onto the food. Delicious and very fresh. We started with the Trifecta salad and Edamame, then had the Yorker Roll and Veggie Roll. Finally, a strawberry flavored rice ball for dessert (By far the best ice dessert - you can eat it with your fingers and the flavor is much more intense than regular ice cream). Everything was excellent. Having tried quite a few Sushi houses in the Southern Maine and New Hampshire Seacoast area, we found Black to be very fresh and very reasonable for pricing - especially with the good service and location.

One potential downside - Right now, it's BYOB. However, if you find yourself at Black and have forgotten a bottle of wine, just head across the street to the Village Food Market and pick up one that you like. The Market has chilled whites, which works best with the fish, and the selection is both good and offers several price points.

So if you find yourself in the mood for seafood (and who doesn't when in Maine!), but don't want to mess with a lobster, a long wait, or fussy fine dining, try Black. Simple Sushi in Ogunquit - Excellent!

- Playing with Chopsticks in the Rain

Ogunquit Hotel's Go Green - Get Certified

As Ogunquit's first and only environmental leader hotel, we have a group of us here called the MRET - Meadowmere Resort Environmental Team. It's a requirement of our certification to have such a team and our task is to stay on top of green trends, implement new eco-friendly programs, provide education about living green and basically be the cheerleaders of our green hotel.

So you can imagine the irony when I was reading Rich Brook's blog about How to Catch People Stealing Your Copy, then begin looking for the latest on green efforts in Maine online and discover our friends up the street had added a section to their hotels' website very similar to ours. Hmmm . . . I thought 'The copying shouldn't really bother me - After all, isn't that flattery?' but then it occurred to me that just copying a website is a problem. It doesn't truly support Maine's Environmental Leader program. This new webpage even goes to far so to link to Maine's state program, giving the illusion that the hotels are certified. Certification takes work and more than just a webpage link.

Becoming green was a year long process and an ongoing part of our culture at the Meadowmere. We have switched chemical vendors, waste management companies, amenities, added recycling bins resort wide, joined Project Planet's towel reuse program, developed eco-packages and more. Being an eco-friendly hotel is more than a webpage.

If every Ogunquit hotel was certified as an Environmental Leader, I would be thrilled - we have a great community and the greening of Ogunquit is our responsibility to our village and our visitors. However, adding a webpage is not enough.

So in a sense, I'm with Rich - all one can do is call them on it. And hope that certification follows. People need to trust the standards in place and know that when a hotel in Maine say that they are green, that the resort, inn, bed & breakfast, hotel or motel have reached a certain certified level, not just added a webpage. When I studied with an advisor to Alan Greenspan in college, she called this transparency in the marketplace. I hope our friends up the street help raise the bar in Ogunquit - and wish them well in their eco-efforts, even if they are following suit.

Head Tree Hugger
Meadowmere Resort - Ogunquit First & Only Environmental Leader

Ogunquit Wedding Locations - Our Favorite Spots

Brides - and grooms! - fall in love with Ogunquit. The seaside village is the perfect place to get married in Southern Maine. Pictures along Marginal Way, scenic trolleys and wonderful reception sites. Over the years, I have become an expert at the best places to get married in and around Ogunquit. Since our hotel is the only place that truly specializes in hosting wedding guests, our staff and myself recognize who truly makes the special day wonderful and understands the many details to planning the perfect wedding in Maine. Here's a list of the Best Wedding Locations in Ogunquit.

And yes, it's true - as the Groups & Weddings Director here at the Meadowmere, I am guilty of occasionally watching Plantinum Weddings and thankfully, have not experienced a Bridezilla!

Top Wedding Sites in Ogunquit

* Clay Hill Farm - A romantic white farmhouse set in the Maine woods. Indoors, outdoors and up to 250 people - Jennifer and her team are the A-Team of Ogunquit's weddings. This talented group has won best of the best for Southern Maine too many years to count and are so good, they now have their own wedding resource guide. Considered one of the most romantic settings in Ogunquit, wedding packages at Clay Hill farm are wonderful - book early and enjoy!

*Arrow's Restaurant - Ever watch the show Platinum Weddings and think 'that's me!'? In Ogunquit there is only one place for your vision of perfection - Arrows. The 25th Best Restaurant in the US and home to nationally acclaimed gardens, Mark, Clark and Danielle have outstanding attention to detail - whether indoors or outdoors, 50 or 150 guests. From crystal stemware to custom lighting to unique cuisine, a wedding at Arrows is an affair fit for a princess and her prince.

*Red Barn at Outlook Farm - A newcomer to the wedding scene, but a longtime partner of our Ogunquit hotel. Our golf package has been with Jeff and his team at the Links at Outlook since the start. As the closest hotel to the golf course, we were thrilled to hear about the gorgeous wedding facility that Outlook Farm would be building. Now, as the project nears completion, I have toured the Red Barn many times - If you are getting married in Maine, see this site for up to 240, indoors or outside. Overlooking the golf course and set against the back drop of Mt. Agamenticus, this barn setting in South Berwick (okay, just outside of Ogunquit!) is spectacular.

*York Harbor Inn - Probably surprised to see another Maine lodging property on our list, but don't be. The York Harbor Inn has a small number of rooms for the size of weddings that they can accommodate and we often are home to their guests. A quaint Maine inn setting that overlooks the York River and wonderful service make the inn a cozy and warm choice for your reception. If you want by the oceanfront and intimate, this is your first stop.

And finally - Congratulations on the big day!

Allyson Cavaretta
Director of Group Sales & Marketing
Head Bride Tamer, The Meadowmere Resort

Guest Ecomment Review from July 2007

Occasionally, we will post comments from our e-comment forms that our guest provide.  This July, a lovely guest with her family commented:

I've stayed twice at your resort. Absolutely loved it both times!!! One thing I have noticed is that the shower heads could be better. It's hard to shower my 6 yr. old, ie, wash her hair since the spray is so misty. I have to bring a bottle to fill to wash her hair with. That's about it. I love the grounds, very nice landscaping. The staff is very nice and helpful with whatever questions I've had. The breakfast spread is great. I dont feel the need to look for another hotel in Ogunquit, even though there are many to choose from!!!

Well, gee - thanks! We're happy to hear that your family enjoys visiting us! Hope you can visit again soon!

Top Five Ogunquit Museums

Here's a list of the Top Five Best Summer Museums in Ogunquit. A great list to keep handy on a rainy day! Most are only a small donation to enter and close by.

Best Top Five Summer Museums in Ogunquit

1. Ogunquit Museum of American Art – The most beautiful little museum in the world, according to Frances Taylor of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. How can such a nationally known museum come to be in our Southern Maine fishing village? Set on the ocean and across from Perkins Cove, Henry Strater purchased the land in 1925 and set about creating a home for the area’s many wonderful artists, including Charles Woodbury, John Marin and Strater himself. Check out hours, exhibits and fees here – a can’t miss stop to learn about Ogunquit’s art colony.
2. Ogunquit Heritage Museum – Set in the Captain James Winn House, the Heritage Museum showcases the maritime history, ‘Do You Remember’ exhibits on recent events and more. Featuring a real scale lobsterman’s shack and a special Ogunquit Playhouse exhibit, check out hours and fees at their website. Best part – the Ogunquit Heritage Museum is right next to the Meadowmere so you can skip getting everybody in the car!
3. Ogunquit Memorial Library – While not technically a museum, the Memorial Library is local treasure. Filled with historical artifacts and book collections, the Library is a beautiful stone building on Shore Road and home to Ghost stories at OgunquitFest and Christmas tales at Christmas by the Sea.
4. Barn Gallery on Shore Road – A hidden gem that features local artists, performing arts, classes and workshops. Meet Maine painters or learn how to become the next Picasso! Videos and exhibits showcase movie making and unique films. The Barn Gallery is located at the corner of Shore Road and Bourne Lane in Ogunquit. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information about exhibits, workshops or special events, call 207-646-8400 or stop by during your stay – the Barn Gallery is a 5 minute walk from our hotel.
5. Seashore Trolley Museum – okay, while not technically in Ogunquit, the Trolley Museum in neighboring Kennebunkport is a great kids spot with over 250 trolley cars, vehicles and other transportation memorabilia. Plus, since Ogunquit is home to Molly the Trolley and all of her friends, you can learn all about railcar transportation in Maine and then catch a trolley ride to Ogunquit Beach and become a part of it! View a slide show of the Museum online and check out hours and fares on this section of the Seashore Trolley Museum website.

Ogunquit Playhouse Currently Crazy for You

One of the best things about the Ogunquit Playhouse is the comfortable atmosphere of summer stock theatre. One doesn't have to be a 'theatre buff' or dressed in Armani to enjoy a great night seeing a play in Ogunquit. Another highlight to the Playhouse is the show selection - always fresh and quite often, includes a belly laugh or two.

But the best thing about the Ogunquit Playhouse is not onstage - it's behind the scenes. The tremendous efforts of stage hands, actors, actresses, volunteers, Playhouse staff and more are worth a standing ovation. And these folks are ambitious!

Take the latest production of Crazy for You starring Jeffry Denman (think Jimmy Stewart with his hat wringing and fabulous physical comedy) and Beverly Ward (booming voice - a pleasure to listen to) - a feat to bring to life.  Rumor has it that the opening night production in London stopped six times in front of Princess Di! Well, opening night at the Ogunquit Playhouse was much smoother (one might say we got better than royal treatment). If you see one production this season, see this amibitous play - the broadway sets, guest appearance by Rue McClanahan and delightful songs are truly outstanding. One thing is for sure - this play's got rhythm and a whole lot more! It's with us just thru the 14th so don't miss it!

Top Five Ogunquit Summer Activities

Here's a list of the Top Five Best Summer Activities in Ogunquit. A must-see guide on the things to do in Ogunquit on your summer vacation. We've provided the perfect itinerary for a 3 day/3-night stay -straight from our Front Desk to you. Enjoy!

Best Summer Activities in Ogunquit

1. Ogunquit Beach - Arrive early to catch a spot on this white, sandy beach with volleyball nets, surfing, a section for beach games, tide pools and an annual kite flying tournament. Yankee Magazine named it the best beach for avoiding the crowds - not hard since the beach is over 3 miles long. There's public parking though we recommend taking a scenic trolley from our back door or walking from our back parking lot (It's only 15 minutes). Pick up lunch at the Village Food Market, visit the Sundries shop for boogie boards and umbrellas and settle in for fun in the sun! (Day 1)
2. Perkins Cove - Home to restaurants, art galleries, Marginal Way, lobster boats and one of America's only walkable drawbridges. Start the day with a cruise to the Nubble Lighthouse with the Finestkind. Enjoy a Maine lobster on the deck of Barnacle Billy's, then stroll to Perkins Cove Candies for salt water taffy. For a romantic treat, try MC Perkins Cove - the view is amazing! (Day 2)
3. Ogunquit Playhouse - Hustle back and get ready for Broadway at the Beach. The summer stock theatre's season begins in mid-May and runs through September. Stars such as Sally Struthers, Rue McClanahan, Bette Davis and Judy Garland have taken a bow. Purchase tickets online or plan everything with our Playhouse Package. This year's 75th Anniversary season is outstanding - Don't miss Hairspray and the King & I! (Day 2)
4. Marginal Way - Crashing waves, breath taking views - this mile long seaside path showcases the famous rocky Maine coastline. Dotted with monument benches, pick up the trail in Perkins Cove by the Oarweed in the morning. Halfway through, a miniature lighthouse resides and a stunning view of Ogunquit Beach. Be sure to have your camera ready! (Day 3)
5. Downtown Shops - Ogunquit's village center features unique boutique shopping and quaint storefronts. Once you've finished up the Marginal Way and arrive on Shore Road, you begin the shops and fine dining. Stroll Shore Road into Main Street, then double back to Beach Street. Along the way, be sure to taste homemade fudge at Harbor Candy Shop (Willy Wonka would be proud!) and Maine made ice cream at the Latest Scoop. For little ones, Animal Instinct and Ogunquit Games are must-sees. Kid Free? Check out Spoiled Rotten on Beach Street and Revelations on Shore Road. Then, head back with your treasures to settle in for one last night - you've just enjoyed 3 perfect days in Ogunquit! (Day 3)

Online reservations - Warning about travelnow.com

At the Meadowmere, we have been very fortunate with online bookings. Overall, the internet has really been a benefit to travel and especially to the traveler. Online bookings - whether at Meadowmere.com or with third party sites like Expedia, Orbitz or Travelocity - are quick and easy.

So it is deeply upsetting - infuriating actually! - when a unscrupulous website comes along. And travelnow.com is just that. In the past month, several reservations with FALSE RATE information have come our way. Now, we are an independent, family run, Ogunquit hotel - can you imagine how many times this underhanded website must do this with large chains?!?!? In the end, it hurts the customer and the property. The customer because they budget for a vacation and find out the costs are as much as three times higher! The property because we look like the bad guys! Who gets away scott free? Travelnow.com - when in reality, the cause of the problem is this unprofessional travel site.

Here's where the story gets worse - after calling travelnow.com not only did they not want to fix the false rate information that they advertise on there site, they did not even want to contact the customer to give the guest the consideration of cancelling. Instead, travelnow.com was perfectly fine with surprising the customer and ruining their vacation. Well that's not acceptable to us! We will continue to work with our internet partner to fix this situation and will continue to inform our guests that travelnow.com is not to be used to book travel.

In the end, call the property directly that you are booking with to double check or visit their site directly. Often it is a better rate and at the very least - it is an accurate rate! No surprises!

July 6th Ogunquit Fireworks - Must Have Information

The Village Spirit Committee sponsoring the Ogunquit Fireworks has shared some important guidelines with us on the July 6th show:

The Village Spirit Committee of Ogunquit presents a Fireworks Display on Friday, July 6, 2007 at 9:30 PM. A rain date of July 7th has been set. The show will originate off a barge in the ocean and the viewing areas will be Perkins Cove, Marginal Way, Moody Beach and the Main Beach with exception of the stretch of Ogunquit Beach north of the Norseman Resort to and including the Footbridge.This is neccessary to protect the piping plover nesting area. Parking will be available at the Footbridge parking lot although no access to the beach will be permitted. Trolleys will provide transportation for $1.50 per ride and will run until midnight. The parking lot at the Main Beach will be closed, allowing for public viewing and entertainment will be provided by DJ Jerry Bazata. It is suggested for safety, that spectators carry flashlights for use in exiting the viewing areas. For more information go to our website at villagespirit.org